A VILLAGE traffic scheme to reduce speeding is to become a permanent feature.

Campaigners have been fighting for a 20mph limit in Affetside for more than four years.

Following a public consultation, Bury Council’s Executive director for environment and development services is expected to approve a permanent speed reduction in Watling Street.

The Affetside Society worked with Bury Rural Inequalities Forum and ward Councillor Yvonne Wright to lobby for traffic calming.

Police have carried out initiatives to deter speeding drivers on the road which was the scene of a horrific crash three years ago.

In January 2010, an experimental 20mph speed limit was introduced and officers were out monitoring speeds and handing out fines.

Bury Council engineers have measured speeds in the village as part of a consultation and while average speeds were not low enough to satisfy the criteria recommended by the Department for Transport for a 20mph limit, it is hoped features at either end of Watling Street will further reduce speeds. The Ramsbottom, Tottington and North Manor Township Forum has recommended approval for the scheme.

Joanne Wilcock, chairwoman of the Affetside Society, said: “In the heart of Affetside the houses lead directly on to the street and residents have to step out of their homes with extreme caution.

“There are no pavements in the village, consequently when traffic speeds through it’s extremely dangerous for pedestrians, cyclists, horseriders and the many walkers who come up to enjoy the views from the village.

“We’re very hopeful the scheme to introduce the two entry features into the village centre and a 20mph speed limit will be supported and are grateful to Bury Council engineers and the councillors for working with us to resolve this issue.“ Principal engineer for Bury Council’s Traffic Management Strategy and Programmes, Les Watts, added: “The Executive has already agreed in principle that entry features could be installed at either end of the village, which should have the potential to further reduce speeds within the village itself and help justify a 20mph speed limit.”